Betty Jane Mefford
age 95, peacefully went to be with her Lord on Sunday, March 12, 2023 in her home in Newport News, Va., surrounded by her children. Betty was born on September 25, 1927 in Covington, Va. to Mary Francis (Nichols) Fortune and Russell Thomas Fortune. She graduated from Longwood Women's College with a degree in Elementary School Education. She pursed her passion for teaching and love of children. She married her high school sweetheart, David A. Mefford on June 20, 1951. They were stationed in Tacoma, Wash., where David served in the U.S. Army. After a move to Richmond, Va. to raise a family, they became very active members of Bon Air Baptist Church and their community. Betty was a great cook and seamstress passed down her skills through many generations. She enjoyed hosting Wednesday night dinners at church for many years. In 1997, they purchased land in Nelson County, Va. and planted one of the first vineyards in Virginia, Bacchanal Vineyard, currently named Afton Mountain Vineyard. There are many wonderful memories shared by family and friends that helped in the vineyard throughout the years. After the death of her husband, she moved to Newport News, Va. to be closer to family where she was a member of North Riverside Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David A. Mefford Sr. in 1991 and her eldest daughter, Nancy D. Bailey in 2013. She was also happily reunited in Heaven with her parents, sisters and dear friends. Family members that will continue cherishing her memory; son, David A. Mefford Jr. (Debbie); daughter, Anna M. Hubbard (Brian); grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Wendy Kiley (Phil) Rowan, Claire, David and Pearl, Matthew Bailey (Jennifer) Adam and Melanie, Greg Mefford (Avery) Linken, Hudson, Rivan, John David Hubbard (Melissa) Jaxon and Jett and Brooke Hubbard, Olivia. Betty's unconditional love was expressed so dearly to everyone as was her strong faith. She was blessed with a long, independent and extremely healthy life. Her zest for life and laughter will be greatly missed and her eternal life surrounded by loved ones is celebrated. A service will be held on Saturday, March 25 at 10:30 a.m. at Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Rd. Richmond, Va. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior. Interment to follow in Westhampton Memorial Park.